Identifying self-drive tourists' main routes, motivations and decision-making in Peninsular Malaysia

Bibliographic Data

ID6415161
AuthorsNadzirah Hosen (0000-0001-6147-9316), Isabel Paulino (0000-0002-8428-8878), Amran Hamzah (0000-0002-5562-9071)
Year2025
Volume6
Issue1
Pages100180-100180
Publication date2025-05-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueAnnals of Tourism Research Empirical Insights (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2666-9579 • E-ISSN: 2666-9579
PublisherElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.annale.2025.100180
OpenAlexW4409988580
LanguageEN
References cited33

This study explores the under-researched domain of self-drive tourism in rural and developing regions, focusing on the Asia-Pacific, particularly Peninsular Malaysia. The primary objective is to enhance understanding of self-drive tourism dynamics in this region by examining aspects such as routes, motivations, and decision-making processes. Using an exploratory qualitative approach, interviews were conducted with key stakeholders from car rental companies and international self-drive tourists. Findings highlight main circular routes, popular stopovers, and key attractions. Additionally, three motivational dimensions emerged: experiential (emotional benefits), functional (spatial and service aspects), and attractions-based (aesthetic, cultural, and nature-related interests). The study also reveals the central role of recommendations from personal networks and digital platforms in tourists' decision-making. Contrary to prior literature, pre-trip planning proves crucial in route setting and stopover choices, challenging the notion of spontaneity often linked to self-drive tourists

Business · Self driving · Transport engineering · Cruise Tourism Development and Management · Diverse Aspects of Tourism Research · Engineering · Religious Tourism and Spaces · Marketing

Tools

Open DOIOpen Access